Youth Pride Conference 2024
Thank you to all who attended!
We can't wait to see you again next year
SPECIAL GUESTS
Joe Saunders (he/him)
Senior Political Director, Equality Florida
Joe is the Senior Political Director at Equality Florida, leading policy and political programs for the nation's largest state-based LGBTQ rights organization. With a background in LGBTQ activism, he has a track record of success in preserving LGBTQ protections, advancing local policies against discrimination, and contributing to the fight for marriage equality in Florida. As the first LGBTQ state lawmaker in Florida, Joe sponsored the "Competitive Workforce Act" to combat discrimination. He later joined the HRC, managing legislative and election programs across 14 states, and was a part of the "Out 100" list of national LGBTQ leaders in 2016.
Brooke Eden (she/her)
Singer / Songwriter
Over the last few years rising star Brooke Eden has become a critically-acclaimed force to be reckoned with in Nashville. Heralded by Billboard as a “fiery country star-in-the-making,” and named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country as well as a Music Row “Next Big Thing,” Brooke has used her personal journey to self-acceptance to create music that is both bold and passionate with the message that it is okay to be who you are. She has even punctuated this message in the form of a partnership with the RIAA, “Music Matters with RIAA,” a multi-event-driven campaign designed to show how music can enable our authentic voice, give us purpose, and give us strength and courage to navigate life’s challenges.
Melanie Willingham-Jaggers (they/she)
Executive Director, GLSEN
Melanie is the Executive Director at GLSEN, where she leads initiatives aimed at promoting safe and inclusive K-12 education environments. Their professional journey is marked by extensive experience in social justice movements, curriculum design, and community organizing. Holding degrees in Politics, Peace and Justice Studies, Philosophy, and Applied Theater, Melanie is known for her unwavering commitment to innovation, continuous learning, and community engagement. Notably, they previously served as the board chair of The Audre Lorde Project from 2016-2019, focusing on fostering healthy spaces within freedom movements and championing inclusivity and equity.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Contemporary Queer Theatre - by nick Dalton
More than Medicine: Exploring Gender Expression and Self-Love - by Jem Frantz
Examining the 2024 FL Legislative Session - by Dr. Thomas Felke
“They Ask for Legal Dignity in the Eyes of the Law”: History of LGBTQ+
Supreme Court Cases - by Ollie Saunders
Rise Up: Fighting Hate with Personal Power - by Ez Rodriguez
The Library is Open, but Where are the Books? - by Dr. Amy Perwien
STAND UP! STAND OUT!
YOUTH PRIDE CONFERENCE
All attendees will engage with a panel of individuals sharing their experiences as a queer person from their own diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Students will also have the opportunity to choose from several breakout sessions that feature a variety of topics facing today’s LGBTQ youth. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for all attendees. The event is free and open to students in grades 6-12.
GLSEN Collier
GLSEN Collier County is a local nonprofit that advocates for a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education for all students. With the support of a national network, this community-led chapter provides a variety of programming and events for queer youth in Collier County.
SHINE Team
The SHINE Team for GLSEN Collier County is a group of high school students who share a passion for LGBTQ activism. These student leaders meet regularly to plan the Youth Pride Conference and organize other local events while engaging with professionals in the community.
Register
Let’s Get Loud! Register for for this year’s Youth Pride Conference for a day of fun, live entertainment, educational sessions, and more. Be inspired by voices in the LGBTQ community; be empowered to live your life authentically; make connections that could last a lifetime.
Youth Pride Conference Sponsors
Proud Sponsors
Ally Sponsors
Contact us today to become a sponsor and support local youth!
Stay informed!
Stay up to date with everything going on with GLSEN Collier County! Learn about upcoming social events, trainings, meetings, and more. Sign up to volunteer and join us in this important activism!